In email interview with Live Science, photographer Cambré said she shares this belief, citing her videos as almost certain proof that both lions are male. In this pair, the dark-maned male is the dominant member of the partnership over the blonde male, Packer said. In the case of the lions, the behavior represents a mix of affection and re-establishment of the pecking order. They are making a point with the behavior. Packer compared male-male mounting to dogs humping a leg.
They're so affectionate to each other.' They are, however, not sexual partners, he added. 'And when you see two solitary males who've lived in fear who suddenly now have a companion, they're so happy. 'It's really scary being a lone male lion out there, and he might find a companion,' said Packer. Not only are coalitions vital to the lions' reproductive success, but from what scientists can tell, these relationships are also meaningful and involve caring, Packer said. This prompts them to team up in groups of two or three, called coalitions, to work together and win mates. Male lions are up against serious competition when it comes to finding females. Although these photos don't show animals breaking any barriers, the pictures are still windows into an important, intimate relationship for lions, Packer said.
